Embryo freezing (vitrification) preserves surplus embryos from an IVF cycle for future use in frozen embryo transfer (FET) cycles, offering flexible and cost‑effective options for family planning.

Why freeze embryos?

Freezing embryos allows couples to preserve embryos for future attempts, avoid repeated stimulation cycles, and use embryos in FET cycles when conditions are optimal.

The vitrification advantage

Vitrification is a rapid freezing technique that minimises ice formation and maximises post‑thaw survival and implantation potential.

Storage and safety

Frozen embryos are stored in liquid nitrogen at -196°C in secure storage facilities with strict monitoring and traceability.

Frequently Asked Questions

It's a process where embryos are frozen and stored for later use, allowing couples to delay or postpone a pregnancy or address other family planning needs.

During an IVF cycle, eggs are retrieved, fertilized with sperm in a lab, and the resulting embryos are then frozen using cryoprotectants, which help prevent ice crystal formation during freezing.

Two main techniques are slow freezing and vitrification (flash freezing). Vitrification is a newer technology with higher embryo survival rates.

It allows couples to postpone or defer family planning, provides flexibility in family planning, and can lead to increased pregnancy rates.

While generally safe, there are potential risks like damage to embryos during freezing, failure to get pregnant after thawing, and increased rates of medical issues in pregnancy.